Session 2: Year 8, WeeK 6 In Review
Quests, Councils, and Calling Cards: A Renaissance of Learning
spark studio
A Magical Week in Review: Journey to the Middle Ages
A long, long time ago—before cars, electricity, or even candy shops—there were towering castles, brave knights, clever villagers, and mysterious forests brimming with secrets. And this week, our learners stepped back in time to explore that enchanting world.
It all began one morning as the sun rose over a distant kingdom. After traveling down a magical road and crossing a mysterious drawbridge, a strange golden key was discovered—unlocking the beginning of an unforgettable adventure.
And so, the quest began.
To everyone's amazement, the clock had turned back thousands of years, transporting us to the heart of medieval times. We explored the daily lives of people from the Middle Ages, discovering the importance of guilds, the beauty of ancient architecture, and how communities thrived without modern conveniences—yes, no TV and no toilets!
Our journey took us deep into the world of shapes and designs, inspiring us to think like medieval architects and artists. In art, we studied the great Renaissance painter Michelangelo and marveled at the detailed, expressive works of the era. We were especially drawn to the Gothic architecture with its vibrant colors, dramatic points, and towering structures that touched the sky.
From magical keys to majestic castles, from guilds to Gothic cathedrals, it was truly a week of wonder, creativity, and discovery.
To help bring our ideas to life, we’re reaching out to our wonderful community.
If you happen to have any extra cardboard or clean, old bed sheets that are no longer in use, we would be so grateful if you’d consider donating them to Spark.
These materials will play a big role in our Exhibition displays and creative projects, and your support would mean so much to us!
Thank you, as always, for being part of the magic.
lower elementary studio
Stepping Into the Middle Ages: Guest Knight, Explosions, and Empires
This week, our Studio traveled back in time—way back to castles, armor, and the clang of swords! We were honored to welcome two guest speakers:
Gage Williams, who returned to teach us about history preservation, and
Ben Toler, who gave us a firsthand look at what it was like to be a knight during the age of Medieval Times.
From donning armor to learning the code of chivalry, he helped us imagine what it means to fully embody a character. His stories and demonstrations are inspiring us as we prepare to create our own characters for the upcoming Renaissance Festival.
Of course, the journey didn’t stop at castles and jousts. Our learners explored the science behind small but mighty explosions—don’t worry, just baking soda and vinegar! Through chemistry in action, we learned how simple reactions can make a big impact, sparking both excitement and curiosity.
In history, we traced the spread of Christianity through the ancient world and discussed the monumental shifts that came with the fall of Ancient Rome. Learners reflected on how cultures rise, change, and influence the generations that follow—lessons that continue to shape our world today.
From knights to empires, from explosions to faith, it has been a week of discovery, imagination, and hands-on learning. We can’t wait to see how our young Heroes weave all of these experiences into the characters they’ll bring to life at our Renaissance Festival!
upper elementary studio
Welcome back, Upper families!
We’re excited to kick off Session Two and start preparing for our big Exhibition at the end of the session.
Exhibition
This session, Upper is teaming up with Spark and Lower to host a Medieval Renaissance Fair, circa 1470 England. Our learners will:
Role-play historical figures (all Heroes) from around the world (Civ)
Perform stage combat (two Heroes) in a medieval-style tournament (Story Arts)
Run an apothecary (a few Heroes) featuring their own aromatherapy “potions” (Quest)
Civ
To prepare, learners explored the butterfly effect in history and debated whether certain individuals shape history more than others. Each learner chose a historical figure from the 15th century, such as Leonardo da Vinci, Johannes Gutenberg, or Suleiman the Magnificent. At Exhibition, they’ll try to persuade parents to support their figure’s cause and mission.
Story Arts
We began with an introduction to stage combat, analyzing fight scenes to see what techniques were most effective. Learners practiced basic moves with partners and discovered they’ll soon get the chance to portray characters in a York vs. Lancaster tournament showdown. To prepare, they’ll draft and rehearse scenes between Richard Neville “the Kingmaker” and Richard III.
Quest
Learners were introduced to alchemy, the ancient pursuit of turning objects into gold and finding the “elixir of life.” Taking on the role of alchemists, they began planning two scent-based projects: one foul aroma for the High School Haunted House and one pleasant blend for the Renaissance Festival apothecary. Next week, they’ll begin experimenting with real compounds.
Other News
Level-Specific Badges:
Level 4 learners will begin crafting strong, story-based Socratic Launches with Mr. Hadrian. Starting next week, they’ll each lead one Launch per week.
Level 5 learners will focus with Mr. K on leadership, beginning with the foundation: learning to follow well before leading.
Core Skills:
Learners are working toward “ninja moves” in self-direction—earning points for teaching peers without giving away answers, using math materials, conducting AI-assisted “study mode” research, tackling logic problems, and pushing toward mastery of math concepts through extra Guide-led lessons. Masters will then support others in turn.
Guilds:
Met briefly to set session goals. Both Entrepreneurs and Artists expressed interest in adding more flexible seating to the Studio.
Big Question of the Year:
“How is the world changing, and how can I grow myself up in it?”
This week’s focus is on double-checking, explored through the stories of Apollo 13’s near-disaster and the Gimli Glider (moved to next week).
Calling Cards:
Launching this Friday! Learners will choose from challenges across six domains:
Makers & Builders
Thinkers & Problem-Solvers
Artists & Storytellers
Nature & Earth Stewards
Explorers & Adventurers
Helpers & Humanitarians
Afterward, they’ll reflect on whether any of these sparks a passion or calling.
Have a great weekend!
middle school studio
From Gaming to Governance
This week in Middle School was packed with creativity, strategy, and leadership. Each day brought new opportunities for Heroes to stretch their minds and take ownership of their learning.
Monday
We launched our Quest, Gaming for Good. Heroes began imagining how video games can go beyond entertainment—serving as tools to inspire, educate, or spark real change. The creativity in the room was contagious as learners brainstormed themes, audiences, and the “why” behind their game concepts.
Tuesday
In Story Arts, we shifted gears to research the art of prop making. From iconic film sets to theater stages, props have always played a role in storytelling. Heroes dug into how props from their favorite shows and films can shape characters, set the mood, or immerse players and viewers in another world. Their research will guide the props they’ll design for their own creative projects later in the session.
Wednesday
Art time this week meant working with clay. Heroes experimented with form and texture, translating their ideas into three-dimensional creations.
Later in the day, Tyler led Genius Hour: King of the Court. In this math-meets-real-world challenge, Heroes acted as general managers of a fictional basketball team. Their task: choose contract structures that balanced star power, injury risk, and budget for role players. They were judged not just on their final choices, but on their quantitative reasoning and analytical thinking along the way.
Thursday
Leadership was in the spotlight as Heroes elected a new Council for Session Two. Candidates shared their vision for the Studio and their commitment to leading with courage, curiosity, and care. The election process gave every Hero a voice, reinforcing the importance of community governance.
Friday
Friday was a full day of reflection and connection. In the morning, we held our very first Town Hall, where Heroes came together to discuss Studio priorities and community decisions.
In Civilization, we explored a pivotal period in the Middle Ages when societies shifted from some people farming to almost everyone becoming farmers. Heroes wrestled with questions about how and why this shift happened, and what it meant for communities, innovation, and daily life.
We also hosted an empathy interview with an expert to support our Gaming for Good Quest—a chance to practice deep listening, ask thoughtful questions, and better understand the needs and perspectives of others as they design their games.
From designing games to sculpting clay, from making financial decisions to choosing new leaders, this week showcased the wide range of ways our Heroes are growing. They’re not just learning content—they’re practicing creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration in ways that prepare them to make an impact far beyond the Studio.
high school studio
What a Week It’s Been!
We kicked things off with Running Partner Challenges that pushed our Heroes to practice setting SMART goals and crafting WOOP goals. These challenges also gave Heroes the chance to connect more deeply with one another—all without the use of technology! The creativity and teamwork that came out of these tech-free challenges were inspiring to see.
Our Signature Learning Experience of the week was Story Arts. This session, our user is a school founder who has asked us to design a full social media branding campaign. The Heroes dove right in, and we are already halfway through developing logos, messaging, and creative content. The energy and collaboration in the Studio have been electric as Heroes step into authentic, real-world roles.
Meanwhile, Math Lab has been buzzing with excitement. Heroes are leaning into personalized progress, pushing past roadblocks, and celebrating wins. It’s clear that growth in math is not just about numbers—but about building confidence and persistence.
This week also brought powerful Studio discussions. Heroes came together to process and reflect on the recent tragedies in Utah Valley and Colorado, demonstrating compassion, respect, and maturity as they supported one another through meaningful dialogue.
Finally, we wrapped the week with check-ins, giving Heroes and Guides the chance to pause, reflect, and set clear intentions for what’s ahead. These moments of reflection help anchor the learning and remind everyone that progress happens step by step.
Another week of purpose, growth, and momentum in the Studio!
Staff Spotlight: Kenyon
Kenyon is a true pillar across our Studios. He jumps in wherever he’s needed—supporting Spark, leading Circles in Middle School, and guiding High Schoolers with the Yearbook. What stands out most is the way he builds meaningful relationships with learners of all ages. His care for each Studio, and every single child within them, reflects his deep commitment to our community.